Epson 3865X Plus User Manual

FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT FOR AMERICAN USERS

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protections against harmful interference in a residential

installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy

and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful

interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause

harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by

turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

l Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver l Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which

the receiver is connected

l Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

You may find the following booklet prepared by the Federal Communications

Commission helpful: “Television Interference Handbook.” This booklet is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. Stock No. 004-000-00450-7.

Note: If the interference stops, it was probably caused by the computer or its periph-

eral devices. To further isolate the problem: Disconnect the peripheral devices and their input/output cables one at a time. If the

interference stops, it is caused by either the peripheral device or its I/O cable. These devices usually require shielded I/O cables. For Epson peripheral devices, you can obtain the proper shielded cable from your dealer. For non-Epson peripheral devices, contact the manufacturer or dealer for assistance.

WARNING: This equipment has been certified to comply with the limits for a Class B computing device, pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules. Only peripherals (computer input/output &vices, terminals, printers, etc.) certified to comply with the Class B limits may be attached to this computer. Operation with noncertified peripherals is likely to result in interference to radio and TV reception.

The connection of a nonshielded equipment interface cable to this equipment will invalidate the FCC Certification of this device and may cause interference levels that exceed the limits established by the FCC for this equipment. It is the responsibility of the user to obtain and use a shielded equipment interface cable with this device. If this equipment has more than one interface connector, do not

leave the cables connected to unused interfaces.

DOC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT FOR CANADIAN USERS

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions

from digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.

Conformation 1

present appareil numerique n’emet

Les

Normes

dIEmission

pas

Radioelectriques Canadiennes

de bruits radioelectriques depassant

les

limites applicables aux appareils numeriques de Classe B prescrites dans le reglement

sur le brouillage tadiohlectriques &cc& par le Minist&re des

Communications du

Canada.

EPSON

EQUITY™ 386SX PLUS

User’s Guide

IMPORTANT NOTICE

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY

Epson America makes no representations or warranties, either express or implied, by or with respect to anything in this manual, and shall not be liable for any implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or for any indirect, special, or consequential damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, so this exclusion may not apply to you.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Epson America, Inc. No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of information contained herein. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this publication, Epson America assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Nor is

any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. Further, this publication and features described herein are subject to change without notice.

TRADEMARKS

Epson is a registered trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation.

Equity is a trademark of Epson America, Inc.

General notice: Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only

and may be trademarks of their respective companies.

Torrance, California

Y705991101

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference.

Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.

Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.

Do not use this product near water.

Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The product may fall, causing serious damage to the product.

Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or bottom are

provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation of the

product and to protect it from overheating, these openings must

not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be

blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product should never be placed near or over a radiator or heat register. This product should not be placed in a built-in installation unless proper ventilation is provided.

This product should be operated from the type of power source

7. indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power available, consult your dealer or local power company.

This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding-type plug, a

8. plug having a third (grounding) pin. This plug will only fit into a

grounding-type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the grounding-type plug.

Do not locate this product where the cord will be walked on.

10. If an extension cord is used with this product, make sure that the total of the ampere ratings on the products plugged into the extension cord do not exceed the extension cord ampere rating. Also, make sure that the total of all products plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.

11. Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet slots, as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.

12. Except as specifically explained in the User’s Manual, do not attempt to service this product yourself. Opening or removing those covers that are marked “Do Not Remove” may expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all servicing in those compartments to service personnel.

13. Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:

A. When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed. B.

If liquid has been spilled into the product.

C. If the product has been exposed to rain or water.

If the product does not operate normally when the operating instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions, since improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to normal operation.

If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged.

If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a need for service.

Introduction Optional Equipment

Operating Systems and Other Software VGA Utilities How to Use This Manual Where to Get Help

Chapter 1

1 Choosing a Location 2 Removing the Protector Card. 3 Connecting a Monitor

Using the VGA Interface. Using a Display Adapter Card

4 Connecting a Printer or Other Device.

Using the Parallel Interface

Using the Serial Interface 5 Connecting the Keyboard 6 Connecting the Mouse

7 Connecting the Power Cord

8 Turning On the Computer

Turning Off the Computer.

Setting Up Your System

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2 3 3 5

1-1 1-3 1-3 1-3 1-7 1-8 1-8

1-11 1-12 1-13 1-15 1-16 1-18

Chapter 2 Automatic Configuration

Starting the Setup Program.

Continuing From an Error Message Moving the Cursor Block.

Running the Setup Program

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2-2 2-2

2-4 2-6

Setting the Display Adapter Type Setting the Power-on Password. Setting the Processor Speed Setting the Speaker and Keyboard Options. Setting the Real-time Clock. Setting the Hard Disk Drive Configuration.

Hard Disk Drive Types

Setting the Diskette Drive Type(s)

Setting the Serial/Parallel Interfaces

Reviewing Your Settings.

Leaving the Setup Program.

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2-6 2-9 2-11 2-13 2-15 2-18

2-23 2-26 2-28 2-30 2-31

Chapter 3 Installing MS-DOS or Another Operating System

Copying the Reference and Utility Files Special Keys on the Keyboard.

Stopping a Command or Program

Resetting the Computer

Using a Power-on Password

Changing a Power-on Password

Deleting a Power-on Password

Using Disks and Disk Drives.

How Disks Store Data

Types of Diskette Drives

Caring for Diskettes and Diskette Drives

Write-protecting Diskettes.

Using a Single Diskette Drive System Inserting and Removing Diskettes. Formatting Diskettes Making Backup Copies Using a Hard Disk Drive

Using Your Computer

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3-1 3-2

3-3 3-5 3-5 3-7 3-8 3-9 3-10

3-10 3-12 3-15 3-16 3-18 3-20 3-21 3-22 3-23

Chapter 4

Enhancing System Operations

Using AUTOEXEC.BAT and Other Batch Files Changing the Processor Speed

Entering Keyboard Commands Using the ESPEED Program.

Reassigning the Diskette Drives

Using the AFDD Program

Using Your Computer as a Network Server

Using a Password in Network Server Mode.

Using Expanded Memory Beyond 640KB

Using Special VGA Features

Chapter 5 Removing the Cover

Changing the Jumper Settings

Setting the Jumpers Installing an Option Card Removing an Option Card Adding Memory Modules

Installing Memory Modules

Removing Memory Modules Installing a Math Coprocessor Removing a Math Coprocessor. Replacing the Cover

Post-installation Setup for Memory Cards

Using the CORFIX Program

Post-installation Setup

Installing and Removing Options

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4-1 4-2 4-4 4-5 4-7 4-8 4-10 4-11 4-13

4-14

5-2 5-6 5-9 5-10 5-16 5-17 5-18 5-24 5-29 5-33

5-34 5-36

5-37 5-38

vii

Appendix A Using the VGA Utilities Preparing to Install Drivers or Utilities

Microsoft Windows/286, Versions 2.03 and 2.1. Microsoft Windows/386, Version 2.1. Microsoft/IBM OS/2, Version 1.1 Autodesk AutoCAD, Version 2.62 Autodesk AutoCAD, Version 9.0 Autodesk AutoCAD, Version 10.0

Digital Research GEM, Version 2.2

Digital Research GEM, Version 3.0 Ventura Publisher, Versions 1.0 and 1.1 Ventura Publisher, Version 2.0

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Ashton-Tate Framework II, Release 1.0.

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Lotus 1-2-3, Release 2 and Lotus Symphony,

Releases 1.0, 1.1, and 2.0

WordStar, Version 3.3

WordStar, Versions 4.0 and 5.0

WordPerfect, Versions 4.0 and 4.1

WordPerfect, Versions 5.0 and 5.1

VGAMODE Utility Program

SETVGA Utility Program

SNOOZE Utility Program

Microsoft Mouse Driver 7.0 Patch Utility

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A-3 A-4

A-6 A-7 A-9 A-11 A-14 A-16 A-20 A-23 A-25 A-26

A-28 A-31

A-33 A-35 A-36 A-38 A-40 A-43 A-45

Appendix B Using the Correct Drive Bay

How to Use This Appendix Setting the Hard Disk Drive Jumpers.

Installing and Removing Disk Drives

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Setting the Jumpers for Two Hard Disk Drives Changing the Jumper Settings.

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Installing a Hard Disk in the Vertical Position

Removing the Mounting Frames From the Drive

Removing and Attaching the Mounting Plate

Installing the Drive.

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Connecting the Hard Disk Drive Cables.

viii

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B-2 B-3 B-4 B-5 B-6 B-8 B-8 B-10 B-13 B-18

Removing a Hard Disk From the Vertical Position . . . . . . . . .

Installing or Removing a Disk Drive in the

Horizontal Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing the Subassembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Installing a Disk Drive in the Horizontal Position . . . . .

Replacing the Drive on the Subassembly. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing a Disk Drive From the Horizontal Position . .

Replacing the Subassembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

B-24 B-27

B-28 B-34

B-42 B-44 B-47

Appendix C Choosing the Type of Format.

Reformatting a Used Disk Formatting a New Disk. Selecting an Option Starting the Formatting Process.

Option 1, Format

Modifying the Defective Track Table

Formatting the Disk Option 2, Destructive Surface Analysis Option 3, Non-destructive Surface Analysis Exiting the Hard Disk Format Menu

Appendix D Troubleshooting

Error Messages The Computer Won’t Start The Computer Does Not Respond Password Problems

Removing a Password

Setting a New Password

Keyboard Problems Monitor Problems Diskette Problems

Diskette Drive Problems

Hard Disk Problems

Physically Formatting a Hard Disk

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C-2 C-3 C-4 C-4 C-4 C-5 C-7 C-9 C-10 C-12 C-13

D-2 D-5 D-6 D-8 D-9 D-11

D-13 D-14 D-16 D-19 D-20

Software Problems. Printer Problems Option Card Problems Mouse Problems Memory Module Problems Math Coprocessor Problems

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D-24 D-25

D-27 D-28 D-29 D-30

Appendix E

Starting System Diagnostics Selecting an Option Modifying the Device List. Selecting a Test

Resuming From an Error.

Error Codes and Messages.

Appendix F CPU and Memory

Controllers.

Interfaces Power Supply Mass Storage

Keyboard.. ........................................

Environmental Requirements. Physical Characteristics

Glossary

Performing System Diagnostics

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Specifications

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E-2 E-4 E-5

E-6 E-8

E-12

F-1 F-2

F-2 F-3 F-3

F-4 F-4 F-5

Index

Introduction

The Epson® Equity™ 386SX PLUS is a high-performance personal computer which offers exceptional speed and convenience in a compact design. The computer’s 16 MHz 80386SX microprocessor makes all your programs run faster, even when supporting multitasking operations.

Your system includes either 1MB or 2MB of internal memory, a built-in VGA (video graphics array) display adapter, built-in parallel and serial interfaces, an IBM® PS/2™ compatible mouse port, and four standard option slots (three 16.bit and one 8-bit). These interfaces allow you to connect most of your peripheral devices directly to the computer, so you do not have to install option cards. You can use the option slots to install additional devices, such as a modem.

The Equity 386SX PLUS can support up to three internal drives: either two diskette drives and one hard disk drive, or one diskette drive and two hard disk drives.

Optional Equipment

You can easily upgrade your computer by installing additional memory and adding optional devices. You can install just about any optional device that is compatible with the IBM Personal Computer, PC XT,” or PC AT.‘”

You can expand the computer’s memory by adding memory modules to the main system board. Memory modules are

efficient because they allow fast memory access and eliminate the need to use an option slot. If your computer came with 1MB of memory, you can expand it up to 10MB by installing SIMMs; on a 2MB system, you can increase the memory up to 14MB with SIMMs. You can add a memory card, however, if you want to expand your computer’s memory to 16MB.

You may also want to install an 80387SX, 16 MHz math

coprocessor in your computer to speed up mathematical calculations in certain application programs. Check with your authorized Epson dealer to see which options are available.

Operating Systems and Other Software

You probably have a version of MS-DOS: the operating system by Microsoft? to use with your Equity 386SX PLUS. Epson has enhanced MS-DOS by adding two time-saving utilities-HELP and MENU-that make it easier to use. The HELP program lets you display information on the screen about any MS-DOS command. MENU provides an easy way to run many useful MS-DOS commands.

Version 4.01 of MS-DOS also includes the Shell program, which lets you run MS-DOS commands by selecting options from on-screen menus. MS-DOS version 3.3 comes with the XTREE® program. XTREE allows you to use on-screen menus

to perform a wide variety of file and directory operations.

You probably also purchased other software; you can use virtually any application program designed for the IBM PC,

PC XT, PC AT, or compatible computers on your Equity 386SX PLUS. You may also use powerful 32-bit software-such as

Microsoft Windows/386™-with your computer.

VGA Utilities

Epson has provided special VGA device drivers and utilities

that you can use with certain VGA monitors, such as multifrequency monitors. Using these utilities, you can take advantage of extended VGA features such as 16-color graphics mode resolutions up to 800 x 600 and 132-column text mode.

How to Use This Manual

This manual explains how to set up and operate your Equity 386SX PLUS. It also describes how to install options and run diagnostics checks. Although the illustrations show a computer with a 5 using a 3 ‘/z-inch diskette drive as well.

%-inch

diskette drive, instructions are provided for

You do not need to read everything in this book; see the following chapter summaries.

Chapter 1 provides simple step-by-step instructions for setting up your system. On the back cover foldout are illustrations

identifying the different parts of your computer; you can refer to these as you set up your system.

Introduction 3

Chapter 2 describes how to run the Setup program to define your computer’s configuration. You must do this before you use your computer. You may need to do it again later, if you change the configuration.

Chapter 3 provides instructions for performing important

operating procedures, including using and caring for disks and

disk drives.

Chapter 4 describes specialized features you can use to enhance

your system’s performance.

Chapter 5 describes some of the options you can use in your

Equity 386SX PLUS

an contains instructions for removing the

cover, setting jumpers, and installing options.

Appendix A provides instructions for using the VGA device

drivers and utilities. You need to install device drivers only if

you plan to use extended VGA features.

Appendix B describes how to install and remove a hard disk or

diskette drive.

Appendix C describes how to perform a hardware-level format

on a hard disk. You need to do this only if you have installed a new hard disk that has never received this type of low-level format, or if you are having serious problems with the disk.

Appendix D contains troubleshooting tips in case you encounter any problems while using your computer.

Appendix E outlines the system diagnostics checks. If you are

having trouble with any part of the hardware, you may want to

run some of these diagnostics checks. Appendix F gives the technical specifications for the computer. At the end of the manual, you’ll find a glossary and an index.

Where to Get Help

Customer support and service for Epson products are provided

by a network of authorized Epson dealers and Customer Care

Centers throughout the United States. Epson America provides

product information and support to its dealers and Customer

Care Centers.

Therefore, we ask that you contact the business where you

purchased your Epson product to request assistance. If the people there do not have the answer to your question, they can

obtain it through our toll-free dealer support program. Epson is

confident that this policy will provide you with the assistance you need.

Call the Epson Consumer Information Center at

1-800-922-8911 for the following:

The nearest Epson dealer

The nearest Customer Care Center

Information on Epson User Groups.

To locate or purchase accessories or supplies, contact your nearest Epson dealer or call 1-800-873-7766.

Introduction 5

Chapter 1

Setting Up Your System

Setting up your Equity 386SX PLUS personal computer is easy.

Just follow the eight steps in this chapter. As you set up your

computer, you may want to leave this manual’s back cover foldout open so you can refer to the illustrations identifying the different parts.

Choosing a Location

Setting Up Your System

1-1

Before you set up your computer, it’s important to choose a convenient location where it can run properly. Select a location that provides the following:

A large, sturdy desk or table. The surface should be strong enough to easily support the weight of your system and large enough to accommodate all of its components. Select a location that allows plenty of space so you can work comfortably.

A flat, hard surface. Soft surfaces like beds and carpeted floors attract static electricity, which can erase data on your disks and damage the computer’s circuitry. Soft surfaces also prevent proper ventilation.

Good air circulation. Air must be able to move freely under

the system and behind it. Leave several inches of space around the computer.

Moderate environmental conditions. Protect your computer from extremes in temperature, humidity, dust, and smoke. Avoid direct sunlight or any other source of heat. High humidity also hinders operation, so select a cool, dry area.

Appropriate power sources. To prevent static charges,

connect all your equipment to three-prong, 120-volt grounded outlets. You need one outlet for the computer, one for the monitor, and additional outlets for a printer and any other peripherals.

No electromagnetic interference. Locate your system away

from any electrical device, such as a telephone, which

generates an electromagnetic field.

1-2

Setting Up Your System

Removing the Protector Card

If you have a 5 the diskette slot. This card is inserted at the factory to protect the read/write heads in the drive. To remove it, flip the latch up to pop the card out part way, then pull it out, as shown below.

%-inch

diskette drive, there is a protector card in

(If you have a second 5 ‘I+inch diskette drive, be sure to remove the protector card from that drive as well.)

Save the protector card. If you transport your computer, you may want to insert the card into your diskette drive prior to shipping. This will protect the read/write heads during the shipping process.

Setting Up Your System

1-3

Connecting a Monitor

The procedure you use to connect your monitor to the computer depends on the type of monitor you have. If you have

a VGA monitor (or a multi-frequency monitor with an analog

connector), you can connect it to the computer’s built-in VGA

port. See “Using the VGA Interface” below. If you have any

other type of monitor, see “Using a Display Adapter Card”

below.

Using the VGA Interface

Follow these steps to connect your VGA monitor to the VGA port on the computer:

Make sure your monitor is turned off.

Place your monitor on top of or near the computer. For easy access, turn the monitor and computer around so the backs of both components are facing you.

If necessary, connect the monitor cable to the monitor.

(Your monitor may have a permanently attached cable.)

1-4

Setting Up Your System

Examine the connector end of the monitor cable, and

position the plug to match the orientation of the monitor interface (marked with a monitor icon). Then insert the plug into the port (the connector should fit in easily when properly oriented), as shown below.

\//

If the connector has retaining screws, tighten them by hand

or with a screwdriver, depending on the screw type.

Setting Up Your System

retaining screws

1-5

Plug the monitor power cord into the monitor’s power

6. as shown below.

inlet,

Plug the other end of the power cord into an electrical

outlet.

1-6

Setting Up Your System

Using a Display Adapter Card

If you are using a non-VGA monitor, you’ll need to install a display adapter (video) card in one of the computer’s option slots before you can connect the monitor. (Your dealer may have already installed the video card for you.)

If the video card has not yet been installed, you’ll need to follow

the step-by-step instructions in Chapter 5 to install an option

card. But first, check the following table to make sure your display adapter card and monitor are properly matched.

Monitor/video card compatibility

Monitor

Monochrome

Color or EGA

* Color monitors do not support EGA cards.

Video card

Monochrome display adapter (MDA) Multi-mode graphics adapter (MGA) Enhanced graphics adapter (EGA) Hercules® graphics card

Color graphics adapter (CGA) Multi-mode graphics adapter (MGA) Enhanced graphics adapter (EGA)

When you are installing the video card, check to make sure any

switches or jumpers on the card are set properly. For example,

you may need to change a switch setting to select color or

monochrome. See the documentation that came with your

monitor or video card for instructions.

Setting Up Your System

1-7

Once you have installed your video card, return to this section

to connect your monitor to the computer. If your monitor came with its own manual, follow the instructions there. Otherwise,

you can follow the steps in “Using the VGA Interface” above; just insert your monitor plug into the video card port instead of

the built-in VGA port.

Connecting a Printer or Other Device

Your computer has both parallel and serial interfaces. To

connect a printer or other peripheral device to one of these

interfaces, follow the instructions below. Of course, Epson offers

a full range of printers; ask your dealer for more information.

Using the Parallel Interface

The parallel interface on your computer is Centronic®

compatible and uses a DB-25S connector.

To connect your printer and computer, you need an IBM

compatible printer cable. If you are not sure which one you

need, check with your Epson dealer.

1-8

Setting Up Your System

Once you have the correct printer cable, follow these steps:

Place the printer next to the computer with the back panels

facing you.

One end of the printer cable has a 25-pin, D-shell connector. Position the plug to match the orientation of the parallel interface (marked with a special icon). Then insert the connector into the port, as shown below. If the plug has retaining screws, tighten them by hand or with a

screwdriver, depending on the screw type.

Setting Up Your System

1-9

Connect the other end of the cable to the printer, as shown below. To secure the cable, squeeze the clips at each side of the printer port and push them into place.

Plug the printer’s power cord into a three-prong, 120-volt, grounded electrical outlet.

1-10

Setting Up Your System

Using the Serial Interface

If you have a printer, a modem, or other peripheral with a serial interface, you can connect it to the serial (RS-232C) port on the back of the computer.

The serial port uses a DB-9P connector, so be sure you have a

compatible cable. To connect a serial device, follow the same steps as above for connecting a parallel device but insert the connector into the serial port, marked with a special icon, as shown below.

Note You need to ensure that the serial port is set up so it functions properly. If you are using the port for a serial printer, you need to redirect printer output to the serial port

instead of the parallel port. To do this, you can use the

MS-DOS MODE or SETMODE command or the MENU

program. See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for

instructions.

Setting Up Your System

1-11

Connecting the Keyboard

Follow these steps to connect the keyboard:

Hold the keyboard cable connector so the indicator on the

1. housing faces up. Insert the plug into the appropriate

socket, marked with a keyboard icon, as shown below.

1-12

Setting Up Your System

You can raise the keyboard by adjusting the legs on the bottom. To change the angle of the keyboard, turn it over and flip each leg upward until it locks into place, as shown below.

Connecting the Mouse

Your computer has an auxiliary port for an IBM PS/2

compatible mouse that uses a miniature DIN (6-pin) connector.

To connect a mouse to the built-in mouse port, hold the mouse

plug so it is oriented properly with the computer socket. Insert the plug into the appropriate socket, marked with a mouse icon, as shown in the following illustration.

Setting Up Your System

1-13

mouse connector

“

Caution Although the mouse and keyboard connectors are physically

identical, they cannot be used interchangeably. Take care to insert the mouse plug into the mouse port.

Once you have connected a mouse, you may need to add commands to your MS-DOS CONFIG.SYS file to enable your computer to use a mouse. See your MS-DOS Reference Manual and the manual that came with your mouse for instructions.

Note If you want to use a mouse or other pointing device connected to a port on an option card in your computer, you can disable the built-in mouse connector by changing a

jumper setting in the computer. See Chapter 5 for

instructions.

1-14

Setting Up Your System

Connecting the Power Cord

Follow these steps to connect the power cord:

Plug the power cord into the AC power inlet on the back panel, as shown below.

WARNING

To avoid an electric, shock, be sure to plug the curd into

the computer before plugging it into the wall socket.

Plug the other end of the power cord into a three-prong,

120-volt, grounded electrical outlet.

Setting Up Your System

1-15

Turning On the Computer

After you set up your system, you’re ready to turn on the power.

But first, read the following safety rules to avoid accidentally

damaging your computer or injuring yourself:

Do not unplug cables from the computer when the power is

on.

Never turn on the computer with a protector card in the diskette drive.

Never turn off or reset your computer while a disk drive

light is on. This can destroy data stored on disk or make an entire disk unusable.

Always wait at least five seconds after you turn off the power before you turn it on again. Turning the power off

and on rapidly can damage the computer’s circuitry.

Do not leave a beverage on top of or next to your system or any of its components. Spilled liquid can damage the circuitry of your equipment.

Always turn off the power, disconnect the computer’s power

cord, and wait five seconds before you remove the cover. Only remove the cover to access optional devices or change jumper settings.

Follow these steps to turn on your system:

Make sure the power cord is plugged into the AC power

inlet on the back panel of the computer and into a three-

prong, 120-volt, grounded electrical outlet.

Turn your computer around so the front panel faces you and

place your other system components in an arrangement that

suits you. (See step 1, “Choosing a Location,” for a typical

arrangement.)

1-16

Setting Up Your System

3. Turn on the monitor, printer, and any other peripheral devices connected to the computer.

To turn on the computer, press the power button located on the right side of the front panel, as shown below.

power button

The power indicator below the button lights up. After a few seconds, the computer starts to perform a diagnostic self test-a series of checks it completes each time you turn it on to make sure everything is working correctly.

Setting Up Your System

1-17

When the system has successfully completed its self test, you see

a prompt to insert a system diskette. (Do not insert a diskette at this point.)

If necessary, use the controls on your monitor to adjust the brightness and contrast until characters on the screen are clear and at a comfortable level of intensity. If your monitor has horizontal and vertical hold controls, you may need to use them to stabilize the display.

Turning Off the Computer

When you are ready to turn off your system, reverse the sequence of steps you followed to turn it on. Turn off the computer first, then turn off the monitor and any peripherals.

Now go on to Chapter 2 and follow the instructions to run the Setup program.

1-18 Setting Up Your System

Chapter 2

Running the Setup Program

The first time you use your Equity 386SX PLUS, you need to run the Setup program on the Reference diskette to define the

computer’s configuration. This is a simple procedure you must do at least once. (You may need to do it again later, if you change the configuration.)

The Setup program automatically configures parts of your system and lets you set (or change) the following for your computer:

Display adapter type

Power-on password

Processor speed

Keyboard and speaker functions

Real-time clock’s time and date

Hard disk drive configuration

Diskette drive type(s)

Serial and parallel port settings.

The configuration you define with the Setup program is stored in the computer’s CMOS RAM, which is permanent because it is backed up by a battery. Whenever you turn on the computer, it searches the CMOS RAM for the correct installation information. If the computer discovers a difference between the information in the CMOS RAM and its actual configuration, it prompts you to run the Setup program.

Running the Setup Program

2-1

Automatic Configuration

Your computer automatically defines the system’s memory configuration and recognizes a math coprocessor, if you have

installed one. It also detects and configures most of the devices you may have installed in your system. For this reason, you may not need to change any of the default settings in the Setup program. However, you should check the options on the Setup menu to verify that the settings are correct for your system.

If your computer comes with 2MB of memory, it automatically

configures the memory as 640KB of base memory and 1408KB of extended memory. If it came with 1MB of memory, your computer configures its memory as 640KB of base memory and 384KB of extended memory. If you install even more memory,

Setup configures it as extended memory also.

Starting the Setup Program

Follow these steps to start the Setup program:

Make sure your computer is turned off.

2-2

Insert the Reference diskette in drive A with the label facing up and the read/write slot leading into the drive.

Running the Setup Program

Slide the diskette into the drive until it is in all the way. Then turn the latch down to lock it in a vertical position. (For more instructions on inserting and removing diskettes, including 3 ½-inch diskettes, see Chapter 3.)

3. Turn on your system. (Remember to turn on your monitor and any peripherals before you turn on the computer.) The screen displays the Operation Menu:

OPERATION MENU

1 - Setup

2 - Format hard disk 3 - System diagnostics 4 - Prepare hard disk for moving

0 - Exit to DOS for more utilities

If an error message appears when you turn on the computer, see “Continuing From an Error Message,” below.

4. The Setup option is highlighted. To select it, press Enter. The screen displays the main Setup menu:

Exit

Display

Password Processor speed Keyboard/ Sound Real-time clock Hard disk drive Diskette drive Serial/Parallel

Running the Setup Program

2-3

Continuing From an Error Message

If your computer has never been set up, you may see an error message, such as the following:

162 - System options not set

(Run SETUP in REFERENCE DISK)

(Resume = "F1" key)

If you see an error message like this one, follow these steps:

Press F1. The computer beeps and the screen displays a

message, such as the following:

The error message beside the diamond indicates the condition causing the error. There may be more than one

error listed in the message. Here are some of the error

messages you may see:

Time is invalid HDD and/or HDC failed initialization Memory size is incorrect, correction made

Incorrect configuration Checksum is incorrect Real-time clock has lost power HDD is incorrect

Some errors, such as Time is invalid, do not allow

you to set a default value, so the screen does not display the

Set default value prompt. If you see one of these

errors, press ESC; the screen displays the main Setup menu so you can enter a new setting.

2-4 Running the Setup Program

Note If you see the message Real-time clock has

lost power, contact your Epson dealer. You cannot

correct this error using the Setup program.

2. Be sure Y is highlighted and press program changes the setting that caused the error to a

setting

that

is more likely to

Enter.

The Setup

match your system

configuration. The screen displays the main Setup menu:

Exit

Display

Password Processor speed Keyboard / Sound Real-time clock Hard disk drive Diskette

drive

Serial/Parallel

You should check make sure they are correct for your system. The default

value

for

correct one for your configuration.

Note

If you choose N or press

all the settings in the Setup program to

the setting that caused the error may not be the

ES instead

of selecting Y to set a default value, the Se that caused the error menu. Be sure to correct this setting

Running the Setup Program

2-5

Moving the Cursor Block

Use

and ? to move the cursor block (the highlighted bar)

through the options on the main Setup menu. After you highlight the option you want, press Enter to select it.

you need to enter numbers while and you want to use the numereric turn it back on.

Follow the instructions in the rest of this chapter to use the Setup program to define your computer’s configuration.

Setting the Display Adapter Type

The Setup program can usually detect the exact type of display adapter you are using with your computer. If you have connected a VGA monitor to the built-in VGA port, the Setup program automatically sets this value for the display adapter type. (With this option you select the type of display adapter you are using-not the type of monitor). If you have installed a display adapter card-or you just want to check the display adapter setting-follow these steps.

Note.

you have installed a display adapter card that

or an EGA card, you must set jumper J6 an the main system board to disable the built-in VGA interface so that your card can operate as the primary display adapter. See Chapter 4 for

instructions on changing jumper settings.

2-6

Running the Setup

Program

not a VGA

At the main Setup menu, highlight

the current display adapter type, such as the following:

Display. You see

If the display adapter type is correct for your system, you can skip this section.

To change the display adapter setting, press Enter. The cursor block moves into the submenu and you see:

VGA

CGA 40 column CGA 80 column Monochrome 80 column EGA,MCGA,VGA or other

Press Enter to move the cursor block into this submenu and then use t or L to highlight the option that matches your display adapter type. If you are not sure which one to choose, follow these guidelines:

If you are using the built-in VGA adapter or have installed a VGA, EGA, or MCGA card, select EGA,

MCGA, VGA or other.

If you have a color graphics adapter (CGA) or a multimode graphics adapter (MGA) attached to an RGB

(color) monitor, select CGA 80 column. (Also set

the color/mono switch on the MGA card to color.)

Running the Setup Program

2-7

If you have a composite color monitor, such as a color television with a video input, try selecting CGA 80 column. If the resulting resolution is poor, run Setup again and select CGA 40 column.

If you have a monochrome display adapter (MDA), an MGA, or a Hercules MGA attached to a monochrome monitor, choose Monochrome 80 column. (Also be sure to set the color/mono switch on the MGA card to mono.)

If you have any other combination of monitor and display adapter card, select EGA, MCGA, VGA or other. In addition, consult the documentation supplied with your display adapter card.

Note

If you have two display adapters of different types, select

the type that you want to be your primary display

adapter. The other one is your secondary adapter

message currently using your primary or secondary adapter.

appears at

power-on telling you whether you are

After you highlight the appropriate display adapter type, press Enter. The screen displays your new display adapter setting.

5. Highlight * * * SAVE SETTING * * * and press Enter

to return to the main Setup menu.

2-8

Running the Setup Program

Setting the Power-on Password

A power-on password is a feature that lets you control who can use your computer. However, you do not need to set a power-on

password to use your computer. If you do not want to set a password, skip this section.

Once you set a power-on password, you must prompt ( Wrn ) every time you turn on or reset your computer. If you cannot enter it correctly, the computer locks up and does not respond to your keyboard entries. Therefore, if you set a power-on password, be sure to remember it or write it down and keep it in a safe place.

If you want to use your computer as a network server, you can set your password to operate in network server mode after you enter the password. (See “Using Your Computer as a Network

Server” in Chapter 4 for more information.)

Follow these steps to set a power-on password and turn on network server mode (if necessary):

At the main Setup menu, highlight Password. This submenu appears:

enter it at the

key

Power-on password

Network server mode OFF

Press Enter. The cursor block moves to Power-on

password.

Press

Enter.

You see this prompt:

Running the Setup Program

2-9

To enter a password, type any combination of characters

(including letters, numbers, and blank spaces) up to a total of seven characters. Use the backspace key to delete mistakes.

Do not use characters requiring the SHIFT key, such as

$, @, or *

in your password. The computer does not

recognize the SHIFT key when you use your password to access the system.

Caution

If you want to return to the password submenu without saving any changes, press ESC.

After you enter a password, press Enter to return to the password submenu.

If you want to change the network server mode setting, highlight Network server mode. To turn network server mode on or off, press Enter.

ember

2-10 Running the Setup Program

The Setup program requires a power-on password to turn on

network server mode. If you did not yet enter a password, this message appears:

Set a power-on password first

To enter a password, highlight power-on password and follow steps 3 through 5 above.

After you enter a power-on password and turn network server mode on or off, highlight * * * *

SETTINGS

Setup menu.

* * * * and press Enter to return to the main

Setting the Processor Speed

SAVE

Your computer can operate at two speed is 16 MHz and low speed simulates 8 MHz. When the computer is set on high speed, it can access memory faster. Your processor is set to operate at high speed unless you change it to low or set the speed to change automatically.

You should use high speed for almost everything you do since your programs work faster on high speed. However, certain application programs have specific timing requirements for diskette access and can run only at a slower speed; check your application program manual.

When you set your processor to change automatically, the computer switches to low speed whenever it needs to access a diskette drive and runs at high speed for all other operations.

speeds:

Running the Setup Program

high or low. High

2-11

Note You may not want to use the

copy-protected programs. in Chapter 4 for more information.

This section describes how to set the processor speed in the

Setup program. You can also change the speed using keyboard commands or by running the ESPEED program. See “Changing the Processor Speed” in Chapter 4 for more details.

Follow these steps to set your processor speed:

At the main Setup menu, highlight Processor

speed. The current status appears:

See

Speed: High

If the displayed setting is correct, skip this section.

To change the processor speed, press Enter. The cursor moves into the submenu and you see:

2-12

High

Automatic

Low

(High is 16 MHz-, 16 MHz; simulates 8 MHz; and automatic tells

the computer to switch from high to low when accessing a diskette drive.)

Press Enter to move the cursor block into the option menu.

Use T or 1 to highlight the speed you want and press Enter.

Highlight * * SAVE SETTING ** and press Enter to return to the main Setup menu.

Running the Setup Program

Setting the Speaker and Keyboard Options

The Keyboard/Sound option lets you control these three features in your computer:

Speaker

Num Lock mode

D Character repeat rate.

Your computer has a built-in speaker that beeps when you perform certain operations. The default setting is Enabled

(on) since it serves a useful purpose in many applications;

however, you may prefer to disable the speaker. When the Num Lock mode is on, you can use the numeric

characters on the keypad. The Num Lock option in the Setup program determines whether the Num Lock mode is on or off when you turn on your computer.

To switch the Num Lock mode off, just press Num Lock (the

Num Lock light turns off); Num Lock is disabled until you turn

the computer off. The next time you turn your computer on, the Num Lock mode returns to the setting you selected in the Setup program.

Note

If you are using the keyboard that came with your computer (or another IBM AT compatible keyboard), the default for the initial Num Lock setting is ON. If you are using a keyhoard that has 83 or 84 keys, the Num Lock default setting is OFF.

The character repeat rate option lets you change the speed at

which your keyboard repeats a character when you hold down a

key. The default setting is Normal, but you can make the

rate faster or slower.

Running the Setup Program

2-13

Follow these steps:

At the main Setup menu, highlight Keyboard/Sound. The current settings appear:

Speaker

Initial num lock

KB repeat rate

If the displayed settings are appropriate for you, skip this

section and go on to “Setting the Real-time Clock,” below.

To change any of the above settings, press Enter. The cursor block moves into the submenu and Speaker is highlighted.

To enable or disable the speaker (turn the speaker on or off), press

Enter.

To turn the initial Num Lock setting on or off, highlight

Initial num lock and press Enter.

To change the keyboard repeat rate, highlight KB repeat rate. You see the following option menu:

Enabled

Normal

Press Enter to move the cursor block into the menu.

Use ? or J to highlight the speed you want and press Enter.

8. Highlight *** SAVE SETTINGS *** and press

Enter to return to the main Setup menu.

2-14 Running the Setup Program

Setting the Real-time Clock

The real-time clock in your computer continously tracks the time and date-even when the computer is turned off. The first time you run Setup, use the Real-time clock option to set the time and date for your computer. You may need to use this option again later to adjust your system for daylight savings

time. The computer automatically changes the date for leap

years.

Note

Follow these steps to set the real-time clock:

1. At the main menu, highlight Real-time clock. If the time and date have been previously set, the current settings appear:

Time Date

If the time and date are correct, you can skip the rest of this

section.

If the time and date are incorrect, go to step 2 below.

If the time and date have never been set, the submenu contains a template for you to fill in:

Time xx:xx:xx

Date

Go to step 2.

09:16:52 08-29-1990

xx-xx-xxxx

Running the Setup Program

2-15

Press Enter to move the cursor block into the submenu.

3. To set or change the time, press Enter again. You see this

prompt:

(“hh” stands for hours, “mm” stands for minutes, and “ss”

stands for seconds.)

Using a 24-hour time period, enter the time in the exact format shown in the box. Type two digits for each part; the Setup program automatically inserts the colons ( : ). For example, to set the time to 1:30 p.m., you would type the following:

133000

You can use the backspace key to make corrections.

Note

If you want to use the number keys on the numeric keypad to enter the time or date, press Num Lock to enable Num Lock mode. The Num Lock light is on

when Num Lock is enabled.

If you enter an invalid time-for example, a number greater than 23 for the hours or greater than 59 for the minutes or seconds-the computer beeps and ignores your entry. Try again.

When the time is correct, press Enter.

2-16 Running the Setup Program

To set or change the date, highlight Date and press

Enter. YOU see this prompt:

(“mm” stands for month, “dd” stands for days, and “yyyy” stands for year.)

Enter the date in the exact format shown in the box. Use two digits for the month and day, and four digits for the year; the Setup program automatically inserts the hyphens. For example, to set the date for August 29, 1990, you would type the following:

08291990

You can use the backspace key to make corrections. If you enter an invalid date-for example, a number greater

than 12 for the month or greater than the number of days in that month-the computer beeps and ignores your entry. Try again.

When the date is correct, press Enter.

Check the new time and date to be sure they are correct. Then press T once or twice to return to the main Setup menu.

Note

The Setup program automatically saves the time and date when you press Enter after typing each one. If you change the time or date and then exit the Setup program without saving your changes, the new time and date still take effect.

Running the Setup Program

2-17

Setting the Hard Disk Drive Configuration

If your computer came with a hard disk, your computer’s hard disk configuration has already been set for you at the factory and you can skip this section.

If you installed or removed a hard disk, follow these steps to set the computer’s hard disk configuration:

1. At the main menu, highlight Hard disk drive.

Your current settings appear:

Drive 1:

Drive 2:

The Type number indicates the type of hard disk installed

in your computer. See your hard disk documentation to find the correct parameters. Then consult the Hard Disk Drive

Types table at the end of this section for a list of the types

you can use in your computer.

The None after Drive 2 indicates that there is no

second hard disk.

If the displayed settings match your hard disk configuration, skip the rest of this section.

If a setting is incorrect, or if you want to see more details about your hard disk configuration, go to step 2.

Type 17

None

2-18

Running the Setup Program

2. To select Hard disk drive, press Enter. You see a

menu such as the following:

Drive 1:

Type

Number of cylinders 977 Number of heads Number of sectors Precomp. Landing Total capacity (MB)

cylinder

zone

5 17 300 977

40.5

Number of heads

Number of sectors

Landing zone Total capacity (MB) .0

The submenu lists the settings you can change for each drive: the number of cylinders, the number of read/write heads, the number of sectors, the precompensation cylinder, and the landing zone (the cylinder on which you park the heads when moving the computer). It also displays the total storage capacity in megabytes.

If you want to change the settings for drive 1 (which is

drive C on most computers), press Enter to highlight

Drive 1:. If you want to change the settings for drive 2, press Enter and then + to highlight Drive 2:.

Press

Enter.

You see this submenu:

None

Type 17

User defined

0 0

If you have disconnected the drive or if the drive does not exist, highlight None and press Enter. All the drive

settings become 0. Go to step 8.

Running the Setup Program

2-19

If you want to change the drive type, and the configuration

of the hard disk you are installing matches one of the drive

types listed in the Hard Disk Drive Types table, go to step 6.

If you want to change the drive types, and the configuration of the hard disk you are installing does not match one of the

drive types listed in the Hard Disk Drive Types table, go to

step 7.

2-20

Highlight Type and press Enter. The current type

number appears:

Now select the drive type number that matches your hard disk configuration in the Hard Disk Drive Types table.

Running the Setup Program

You can enter the drive type in one of two ways:

You can type the drive type number (listed in The Hard Disk Drive Types table) and press Enter. The screen displays the new number and hard disk settings. (You cannot type 00 or a drive type number that has more than three digits.)

You can use the cursor keys to move through the drive

type numbers, as follows:

PgDn

PgUp

Home

End

This is a handy way to verify new hard disk settings before you press Enter because the settings list is automatically updated as you display each new type number.

increases the drive type number one

number at a time decreases the drive type number one

number at a time increases the drive type number in

increments of 10 (for example, from 47 to 57)

decreases the drive type number in increments of 10 (for example, from 47 to 37)

enters drive type 1 (the first available drive type)

enters drive type 63 (the last available drive type)

After you enter the appropriate drive type number, press

Enter. The screen displays the new number and hard disk

settings. Go to step 8.

Running the Setup Program

2-21

If the configuration of the hard disk you are installing does

not match one of the drive types listed in the Hard Disk

Drive Types table, highlight User defined and press

Enter. You

see the following:

Number of cylinders

The same parameter is highlighted on the submenu above.

Enter the correct number of cylinders and press Enter.

The information for Number of cylinders is automatically updated on the submenu above and you see the next parameter, Number of heads. Enter the correct number of read/write heads for the hard disk and press

Enter.

Follow this same procedure for each remaining item in the

settings list (the number of sectors, the precompensation

cylinder, and the landing zone).

If you enter a parameter incorrectly, press t or J to

highlight the parameter and then enter it again.

977

2-22

The Setup program does not allow you to enter the total

storage capacity; it calculates the storage capacity for you based on what you enter for the number of cylinders, heads, and sectors.

After you type the landing zone number and press Enter, the cursor block returns

If you want to change the hard disk settings for drive 2, press + and return to step 4.

Running the Setup Program

to the Drive submenu

heading.

When the hard disk drive settings are correct, press ? to move the cursor block into the top submenu. Highlight

* * SAVE SETTINGS

hard disk drive configuration.

* *

and press

Enter to

save your

Hard Disk Drive Types

This table lists the types of hard disk drives you can use in your computer. Check this table and the documentation supplied with your hard disk to find the correct number for the type of hard disk drive installed in your computer. You need to enter this number when you set the hard disk drive parameters in the Setup program.

Running the Setup Program

2-23

Hard disk drive types

2-24 Running the Setup Program

Hard disk drive types (continued

1. Miniscribe 8425F, Seagate ST125

2. Conner CP-344 or Miniscribe 8051A can be used as type 17

3. For Western Digital ESDI HDC or Drive Maker default setting

4. Micropolis 1325, Ataal 3085, Lanstor Lan64, Maxlor XT1085, Newbury NDR1085

Mlaopolisl3231\,Mlnlscribe3035,MicmsdenceHH1050,SeagateST4053

Thelandi~zonevalueis934

The ladory-installed hard diskdrive type for the Equity 386SX PLUS is number 17 (40,5MB).

Running the Setup Program

2-25

Setting the Diskette Drive Type(s)

Your Equity 386SX PLUS comes with one factory-installed diskette drive (either 5

second diskette drive or removed one, you may need to change the diskette drive settings to match your configuration. If you haven’t made any changes, you can verify the drive type settings. Follow these steps:

1. At the main menu, highlight Diskette drive. The

current settings appear:

‘/+inch

or 3 ‘/z-inch). If you added a

Drive A:

Drive B: None

If the diskette drive types on the screen match your diskette drive configuration, you can skip the rest of this section.

1.2 MB

2-26 Running the Setup Program

Press Enter. The cursor block moves into the diskette drive submenu and you see the following:

Not

installed

360 KB drive 720 KB drive (3.5")

1.2 MB drive

1.44 MB drive (3.5")

You also see this message below:

Selected drive light is ON

This tells you that the light on the diskette drive currently selected is on.

If you want to change the drive A settings, be sure

Drive A: is highlighted and press Enter. If you want to

change the drive B settings, highlight Drive B : and press Enter. The cursor block moves into the submenu.

Use 4 or t to highlight the correct type for your diskette drive and press Enter. The screen displays the new diskette drive type you selected.

If you want to enter the type for another diskette drive,

return to step 3.

When the diskette drive settings are correct, highlight

** SAVE SETTINGS **

block returns to the main Setup menu and you see the updated information for drives A and B.

and press

Running the Setup Program

Enter.

The

cursor

2-27

Setting the Serial/Parallel Interfaces

The serial and parallel interfaces in your computer are set to act as the primary ports. If these are the only ports you are using in your computer, you can skip this section.

If you install an option card with its own serial or parallel port, however, you may want to designate the built-in port as secondary and the additional port as primary. The Setup program lets you choose which port is primary and which is secondary so there is no conflict between the built-in port and the additional port. Here are some examples:

If you install an option card with a port pre-set as primary by the manufacturer, you must designate it as the primary port and make the computer’s built-in port the secondary port.

If you install an option card or peripheral with a port that is not preset, you can designate it as the primary or secondary port.

If you install two option cards with ports, designate one as the primary port and the other as the secondary port and disable the built-in port.

Follow these steps to change your built-in serial and parallel

interface settings:

At the main menu, highlight Serial/Parallel. The current settings for each port appear:

2-28 Running the Setup Program

Press

You see:

3. If you want to change the serial port setting, be sure

Serial

change the parallel port setting, highlight and press Enter. The cursor block moves into the submenu.

Use L or T to highlight the appropriate setting for the port you selected and press Enter. The screen displays the new setting.

Note

Enter

to move the cursor block into the submenu.

highlighted and press

Enter.

If you want

Parallel

If you add an option card with a parallel or serial port and

highlight a setting that causes a conflict between your

built-in ports and the port on the option card, you see this message:

Conflict with option card

Highlight a setting that is appropriate for your system’ configuration and press

If you want to change the setting for the other port, return to step 3.

When the serial and parallel port settings are correct,

highlight *** SAVE SETTINGS *** and press

Enter.

Enter. The cursor block returns to the main Setup menu

and you see your updated serial and parallel interface settings.

Running the Setup Program

2-29

Reviewing Your Settings

When you finish using the Setup program to define your computer’s configuration, use 7 to highlight Exit at the main Setup menu and press Enter. The following Setup summary appears on the screen:

Memory Base memory

Password

Display type

Processor Speed High

Extended memory 1408 kb

Power-on password Network server mode

640 kb

not installed OFF

EGA,MCGA,VGA or other

There are two more Setup summary screens you need to check. To display the next screen, press PgDn. You see the following:

Real-time clock

Coprocessor not installed

Diskette drive

Speaker

Initial num lock

Keyboard repeat rate Normal

Time Date

Drive A: Drive B:

13:40:38 08-29-1990

1.2 MB

None

Enabled

Serial

Parallel

2-30 Running the Setup Program

Primary Primary

If you have never set the real-time clock, the entry at the top of the screen flashes to remind you to set the time and date. See “Setting the Real-time Clock,” above, for instructions.

To view the last Setup summary screen, press PgDn. You see your hard disk drive configuration(s):

Hard disk drive

Drive 1:

Number of cylinders Number of heads Number of sectors Precomp. cylinder Landing Total capacity (MB)

zone

Type

977 5 17 300 977

40.5

Drive 2: None

Number of cylinders 0 Number of heads Number of sectors Precomp. Landing zone Total capacity (MB) .0

cylinder

Check each Setup summary screen to see if all the information

is correct. You can press PgUp to display the previous screen or

PgDn to display the next screen.

If anything is incorrect, be sure Change settings is

highlighted and press Enter. The main Setup menu appears and

you can change the appropriate settings.

Leaving the Setup Menu

0 0 0 0

If you did not change any settings or you want to cancel the changes you made, highlight Exit without saving at a Setup summary screen and press Enter. The Operation Menu appears. Press 0 and Enter to exit. (If you changed the time or date, the new setting takes effect even if you exit the

Setup program without saving your changes.)

Running the Setup Program

2-31

If you want to save the settings you entered, highlight

** EXIT AND SAVE ** and press Enter at a Setup

summary screen. The Setup program stores the new settings and

resets the computer using the new configuration. If you have set a password, you need to enter it at the key prompt. (See “Using a Power-on Password” in Chapter 3 for instructions.) The

Operation Menu appears. Press 0 and Enter to exit the Operation Menu.

After you save the settings you entered, remove the Reference

diskette from your diskette drive and turn off your system. Then follow the instructions in your MS-DOS Installation Guide to install MS-DOS. (If you are using a different operating system, follow the installation instructions in that manual.)

If the computer displays an error message while it is starting up, run the Setup program again and check the setting the error message indicates. If the computer still displays an error message after you check your Setup program settings, see Appendix E or ask your dealer for assistance.

After you have installed MS-DOS on your hard disk, you should always boot the computer from the hard disk to use MS-DOS. If you boot from your Reference diskette to run Setup or System diagnostics, remove the diskette from drive A and reset your computer when you are finished running the program. This ensures that your system performs all the commands in your CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT files each time you use MS-DOS.

Note

Be sure to make a backup copy of your Reference diskette after you run the Setup program and install MS-DOS. See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for instructions on how to copy diskettes.

2-32

Running the Setup Program

Chapter 3

Using Your Computer

This chapter briefly describes the following procedures for using your computer:

Installing MS-DOS or another operating system

Copying the Reference and Utility diskette files

Using special keys on the keyboard

Stopping a command or program

D Resetting the computer

Using a power-on password

Using disks and disk drives.

Installing MS-DOS or Another Operating

System

After you connect the components of your system and run the Setup program, you must install the operating system on your computer. If you are installing MS-DOS, follow the instructions in your MS-DOS Installation Guide. If you are installing another operating system, such as MS OS/2 or UNIX, see the manual that comes with that system for instructions.

The instructions in this manual assume that you are using MS-DOS with your computer-either version 3.3 or 4.01. If you

install another operating system, see the manual that came with it for instructions on how the operating system works with your computer.

Using Your Computer

3-1

Copying the Reference and Utility Files

If you have a hard disk, you’ll probably want to copy some of the files on your Reference diskette and Utility diskettes to the hard disk. This allows you to run the programs directly from your

hard disk instead of having to insert a diskette into the drive.

Use the COPY command (described in your MS-DOS Reference Manual) to copy the following files from the

Reference diskette to your hard disk:

AFDD.EXE

HDSIT.COM

The Reference diskette also contains files for the Setup program

and the System diagnostics program. However, you should always run these programs from the Reference diskette in drive A; so do not copy these files to your hard disk.

The Utility diskettes contain VGA utilities that allow you to display graphics in certain high-resolution modes. If you want to use any of these extended modes on your VGA monitor, you’ll need to use some of the VGA utilities on the Utility diskettes.

It is best to copy the files you need to your hard disk as well. See

Appendix A for a list of the utilities and instructions for using

them.

COREFIX.EXE HDSIT.VER

ESPEED.EXE ROMBIOS.COM

3-2 Using Your Computer

Special Keys on the Keyboard

Certain keys on your keyboard serve special functions when your computer is running MS-DOS or application programs. The following illustration shows the keyboard layout, and the table that follows describes the special keys.

main character keys

Key functions

Key

Tab

Caps Lock Changes the letter keys from lower- to

Shift Produces uppercase characters or the top

Ctrl

Purpose Moves the cursor one tab to the right in normal

mode and one tab to the left in Shift mode.

uppercase; changes back to lowercase when pressed again. The numeric/symbol keys on the top row of the keyboard and the symbol keys in the main part of the keyboard are not affected.

symbols on the keys when used with the main character keys. Produces lowercase characters when the Caps Lock function is on.

Works with other keys to perform special (control) functions, such as editing operations

in MS-DOS and various application programs.

cursor

keys

numeric keypad

Using Your Computer 3-3

Key functions (continued)

Key

Alt

tBackspace

Enter

Insert (Ins) Turns the Insert function on and off. Delete (Del) Home, End

Page UP (PgUp) Page Down (PgDn)

7tL-P

F1-F12 Perform special functions within application

Print Screen

(PrtSc)

Purpose Works with other keys to enter alternate

character codes or functions. Moves the cursor back one space, deleting the

character to the left of the cursor. Ends a line of keyboard input or executes a

command.

Deletes the character marked by the cursor. Control cursor location.

Changes the function of the numeric/cursor

keys from entering numbers to positioning the

Cancels the current command line or

programs. Prints the screen display on a line printer.

Sys Rq (Req)

Scroll Lock

Pause

Break

The

Caps Lock, Num Lock,

Generates the System Request function in some application programs (when used with Alt).

Controls scrolling in some applications.

Suspends the current operation. Terminates the current operation (when used

with Ctrl).

and Scroll

Lock

keys work as toggles; press the key once to turn on a function and again to turn it off. When the function is enabled, the corresponding light in the upper right corner of the keyboard is on.

3-4

Using Your Computer

Stopping a Command or Program

You may sometimes need to stop a command or program while

it is running. Many application programs provide a command you can use to cancel or even undo an operation. If you have entered an MS-DOS command that you want to stop, try one of the following commands:

Hold down the Ctrl key and press C.

Hold down the Ctrl key and press Break.

These methods may also work in your application program. If you cannot stop a particular operation using the above commands, you may need to reset the computer, as described

in the following section.

Caution

It is best not to turn off the computer to stop a program or command. If you created new data and have not yet stored it, the data will be erased if you turn off the computer., The computer stores your data in its memory area (RAM) until you save it; but the data is erased each time you turn off or reset the computer.

Resetting the Computer

Occasionally, you may want to clear the computer’s current settings or its memory without turning it off. You can do this by resetting the computer.

For example, if an error occurs and the computer does not

respond to your keyboard entries, you can reset it to reload

MS-DOS and try again. However, resetting erases any data in the computer’s memory that you have not saved; so reset your computer only if necessary.

Using Your Computer

3-5

To reset the computer, MS-DOS must be either on the hard disk or on a diskette in drive A; so if your computer does not have a hard disk, insert the Startup diskette in drive A.

There are two ways to reset the computer:

If you are using MS-DOS, hold down Ctrl and Alt and press the Del key. The screen goes blank for a moment and then the computer should reload MS-DOS. If it doesn’t, try the next method.

Press the RESET button on the front panel. This method works even when the computer does not respond to your keyboard entries.

If resetting the computer does not correct the problem, you probably need to turn it off and reboot it. Remove any diskette(s) from the diskette drive(s). Turn off the computer

and wait five seconds. If your computer does not have a hard disk, insert the Startup diskette in drive A. Then turn on the

computer.

3-6

Using Your Computer

Using a Power-on Password

If you set a power-on password when you ran the Setup

program, you must enter it every time you turn on or reset the

computer. Follow these steps to use your password:

If you do not have a hard disk, insert your Startup diskette in drive A.

Turn on or reset the computer. The screen displays a key

prompt:

At the key prompt, type your power-on password. The key turns when you type a character, but the screen does not display the characters you type. Then press Enter.

After you type the complete password correctly and press Enter,

a happy face character appears. Then the computer loads MS-DOS and displays the MS-DOS command prompt. If you are using version 4.01 and you installed the Shell program when you installed MS-DOS; you see the Shell Start Programs menu

instead of the command prompt.

You have three chances to enter the correct password. If you do not enter the correct password at the first or second key prompt,

another key prompt appears. If you do not enter the correct password at the third key prompt, the screen displays a zero, the keyboard locks

computer and try to enter the correct password again. (See

“Resetting the Computer,” above, for instructions.)

up, and you cannot use the computer. Reset the

Using Your Computer

3-7

Note

If you do not know the correct password, see “Password Problems” in Appendix D,

Changing a Power-on Password

To change your power-on password, follow these steps:

If you do not have a hard disk, insert your Startup diskette in drive A.

Turn on or reset the computer. At the key prompt, enter your current power-on password followed by a forward slash. After the slash, enter the new password you want to use. For example, if your current password is 123 and you want to change it to ABC, type:

123/ABC

Do not use characters requiring the Shift key, such as

$, @,

recognize the Shift key when you use your password to access the system.

in your new password. The computer does not

The screen does not display what you type.

Press Enter. A happy face character appears and then the

computer loads MS-DOS.

3-8 Using Your Computer

To access the computer the next time you turn it on or reset it, enter the new power-on password.

Deleting a Power-on Password

To delete your power-on password, follow these steps:

If you do not have a hard disk, insert your Startup diskette in drive A.

Turn on or reset the computer. At the key prompt, enter your current power-on password followed by a forward slash.

For example, if your password is 123, type:

123/

Press Enter. A happy face character appears and then the computer loads MS-DOS.

The next time you turn on or reset the computer, it does not

request a password and loads MS-DOS immediately.

Note You need to know the password in order to delete it using

this method. If you do not know the password, see “Pasword Problems” in Appendix D.

Using Your Computer

3-9

Using Disks and Disk Drives

The disk drives in your computer allow you to store data on disk, and then retrieve and use your stored data when you want

to. Your computer comes with a single diskette drive or one

diskette drive and one hard disk drive. You may install an

additional diskette drive or hard disk drive, up to a maximum of three drives total.

This section explains how disks work and tells you how to:

Use different types of diskettes and diskette drives Care for your diskettes and diskette drives

Write-protect diskettes

Use a single diskette drive system

Insert and remove diskettes

Format diskettes Make backup copies Use a hard disk drive.

How Disks Store Data

Diskettes are made of flexible plastic coated with magnetic material. This plastic is enclosed in a square jacket that is either slightly flexible (5

Unlike a diskette, a hard disk is rigid and fixed in place. It is sealed in a protective case to keep it free of dust and dirt. A hard disk stores data the same way that a diskette does, but it works much faster and has a much larger storage capacity.

3-10 Using Your Computer

‘/+inch

diskette), or hard (3 ‘/z-inch diskette).

All disks are divided into data storage compartments by sides,

tracks, and sectors. Double-sided diskettes store data on both

sides. On each side, there are concentric rings, called tracks, on which a disk can store data.

A disk is further divided by sectors. To understand what a sector

is, picture the spokes on a bicycle wheel radiating from the hub of the wheel to the tire. The space between one spoke and the next is like a sector on a diskette. The figure below provides a simple representation of tracks and sectors.

Double-sided, double-density diskettes have either 40 or 80 tracks on each side, and double-sided, high-density diskettes have 80 tracks on each side. Diskettes can have 8,9,15, or 18 sectors per track.

Using Your Computer

3-11

A hard disk consists of two or more platters stacked on top of one another and thus has four or more sides. In addition, a hard disk has many more tracks per side than a diskette, but the

number of tracks depends on the capacity of the hard disk. The number of sectors depends on the type of hard disk.

Your computer uses the read/write heads in a disk drive to store

and retrieve data on a disk. To write to a disk, the computer spins it in the drive to position the disk so that the area where

the data is to be written is under the read/write head. A diskette

has an exposed area where the read/write head can access it.

Because data is stored magnetically, you can retrieve it, record over it, and erase it-just as you play, record, and erase music on a cassette tape.

Types of Diskette Drives

The top diskette drive in your computer is either a 5

1.2MB drive or a 3 second diskette drive, and it may be the same type or it may be different. The following list describes the four types of diskette drives you can use in your computer and which diskettes to use with them:

1.2MB drive-With this drive, use 5 high-density, 96 TPI (tracks per inch), 1.2MB diskettes. These diskettes contain 80 tracks per side, 15 sectors per track, and hold up to 1.2MB of information, which is approximately 500 pages of text.

Note MB stands for megabyte, which equals 1024KB (or

1,048,576 bytes). KB stands for kilobyte, which equals 1024 bytes. Each byte represents a single character, such as A, $, or 3.

‘/z-inch,

1.44MB drive. You may also have a

‘/+inch,

double-sided,

3-12

Using Your Computer

1.44MB drive-with this drive, use 3

high-density, 135 TPI, 1.44MB diskettes. These diskettes

contain 80 tracks per side, 18 sectors per track, and hold up to 1.44MB of information, which is approximately 600

pages of text.

360KB drive-With this drive, use 5 double-density, 48 TPI, 360KB diskettes. (You can also use single-sided, 160KB or 180KB diskettes.) These diskettes

contain 40 tracks per side and 8 or 9 sectors per track. With 8 sectors per track, a diskette holds up to 320KB. With 9

sectors per track, a diskette holds up to 360KB of

information, which is approximately 150 pages of text.

720KB drive-With this drive, use 3 double-density, 135 TPI, 720KB diskettes. These diskettes contain 80 tracks per side, 9 sectors per track, and hold up

to 720KB of information, which is approximately 300 pages of text.

Note

‘/z-inch,

‘/+inch,

‘/z-inch,

double-sided,

You must format a new diskette before you can store data on it. See “Formatting Diskettes,” later in this section.

Drive and diskette incompatibilities

If your computer has more than one type of diskette drive, or if you use diskettes from other computers with other types of diskette drives, you need to be aware of certain incompatibilities between the diskette drives and the diskettes they use.

Because of the type and size differences, you cannot use a

3 ‘/z-inch diskette in a 5

also certain limitations on using diskettes that are the same size as the drive but have different capacities. The following tables summarize the possibilities and limitations.

‘/+inch

drive or vice versa. There are

Using Your Computer

3-13

‘/+inch

drive/diskette compatibility

Drive type 360KB 360KB, 320KB, 180KB, 160KB

1.2MB 1.2MB, 360KB*, 320KB*, 180KB*, 160KB*

If you write to this diskette in your 1.2MB drive, you may not be able

to read it or write to it in a 360KB drive later.

Diskette types it can read from and write to

3 ‘/z-inch drive/diskette compatibility

Drive type

720KB 720KB

1.44MB

Diskette types it can read from and write to

1.44MB. 720KB

Because of these incompatibilities, always indicate the diskette type and density when you label your diskettes. (Usually this information appears on the manufacturer’s label.)

If you have any combination of the above drives (1.2MB,

360KB, 1.44MB, or 720KB), you can copy files from one drive

to another-using the COPY or XCOPY command-as long as the correct diskette type is in each drive. You can also use these commands to copy files between a hard disk and any type of diskette. However, you cannot use the DISKCOPY command to copy from one diskette drive to another if the two drives are not

the same type. For more about MS-DOS commands, see your

MS-DOS Reference Manual.

3-14

Using Your Computer

Caring for Diskettes and Diskette Drives

Follow these basic precautions to protect your diskettes and avoid losing data:

If you have a diskette that contains data you don’t want to accidentally write over or erase, be sure you write-protect it. This is especially important for your operating system and application program diskettes. See “Write-protecting Diskettes,” below, for more details.

Do not remove a diskette from the diskette drive or reset or

turn off the computer while the drive light is on. This light indicates that the computer is copying data to or from a

diskette. If you interrupt this process, you can destroy data.

Remove all diskettes before you turn off the computer.

Keep diskettes away from dust and dirt. Small particles of

dust or dirt can scratch the magnetic surface, destroy data, and ruin the read/write heads in a diskette drive.

Never wipe, brush, or try to clean diskettes in any way.

Keep diskettes in a moderate environment. They work best

at normal room temperature and in normal humidity. Don’t leave diskettes sitting in the sun, or in extreme cold or heat.

Keep diskettes away from magnetic fields. (Remember that diskettes store information magnetically.) There are many magnetic sources in your home or office, such as electrical appliances, telephones, and loudspeakers.

Do not place diskettes on top of your monitor or near an external hard disk drive.

Using Your Computer

3-15

The surface of a 5 ‘/r-inch diskette is exposed by the read/write slot. Always hold the diskette by its protective jacket and never touch the magnetic surface. The oils on your fingertips can damage it.

Do not place anything on top of your diskettes, and be sure they do not get bent. A diskette does not rotate properly in the drive if it has been damaged.

Carefully label your diskettes and be sure to indicate the diskette type and density. Attach labels firmly but gently,

and only along the top of a diskette (next to the manufacturer’s label). Do not stick several labels on top of one another; too many labels can make it difficult to insert and remove the diskette in the drive.

It is best to write on a diskette label before you attach it to the diskette. If you need to write on a label that is already on the diskette, use only a soft-tip pen-not a ballpoint pen or a pencil.

Store diskettes in their protective envelopes and in a proper location, such as a diskette container. Do not store diskettes flat or stack them on top of each other.

Write-protecting Diskettes

You can write-protect a diskette to prevent its data from being

altered. When a diskette is write-protected, you can read it and copy data from it, but you cannot store new data on the diskette or delete any files it contains. If you try to change data stored on a write-protected diskette, MS-DOS displays an error message.

3-16 Using Your Computer

To write-protect a 5

‘/+inch

diskette, cover the small, rectangular notch (shown below) with an adhesive writeprotect tab. Write-protect tabs usually are included in a new package of blank 5

%-inch

diskettes.

kite-protect notch

To remove the write protection, peel off the write-protect tab.

Note Some program diskettes, such as your MS-DOS diskettes and

Using Your Computer

3-17

On a 3 ‘/z-inch diskette, the write-protect device is a small switch on the back of the diskette in the lower right comer, shown below. To write-protect a 3 ½-inch diskette, slide the switch toward the edge of the diskette until it clicks into position, exposing a hole in the comer.

write-protect switch

To remove the write protection, slide the switch toward the center of the diskette until it clicks into position and the hole is covered.

Using a Single Diskette Drive System

MS-DOS expects the computer to have at least two diskette drives and displays prompts and messages accordingly. Usually, MS-DOS recognizes the first diskette drive (the top drive on your computer) as A and a second diskette drive as B. If you have only one diskette drive, MS-DOS can treat it as both A and B when you need to perform operations that normally require two diskette drives.

3-18 Using Your Computer

For example, if you enter a command to copy data from A to B, MS-DOS copies the data from the first diskette you place in the drive (which would be drive A) to the computer’s memory. Then MS-DOS prompts you to insert another diskette (for drive B) and copies the data from memory to the new diskette.

When copying is complete, you see a prompt to insert the

original diskette (A).

Because you may often swap diskettes this way, it is important

to remember which diskette is which. It is also a good idea to

write-protect your original diskette. See “Write-protecting Diskettes,” above.

If you have a hard disk and one diskette drive, you can load the

operating system and application programs from the hard disk,

create and store your data there, and use the diskette drive just for copying data to or from diskettes.

However, if you have only one diskette drive and no hard disk, you need to use that drive to load the operating system as well as any application program you are using. First, insert the

operating system diskette (the Startup diskette, for example) in drive A and load the operating system; this copies it to the

computer’s memory (RAM) so you do not need to leave the system diskette in the drive. Then remove the system diskette and insert your application program diskette to load that data into memory, too. See your application program manual for detailed instructions.

Using Your Computer 3-19

Inserting and Removing Diskettes

If you have a 5 hold the diskette with the label facing up and the read/write slot leading into the drive, as shown below.

Slide the diskette into the slot until it is in all the way. Then turn the latch down to lock it in a vertical position. This keeps the diskette in place and enables the read/write heads in the diskette drive to access the diskette.

+-inch

diskette drive, insert a diskette as follows:

To remove the diskette, flip up the latch to pop out the

diskette. Carefully pull out the diskette, place it in its protective envelope, and store it in a proper location, such as a diskette container.

If you have a 3 ‘/z-inch diskette drive, insert the diskette with the label facing up and the metal shutter leading into the drive, as shown in the following illustration. Slide the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place.

3-20 Using Your Computer

To remove the diskette, press the release button. When the

diskette pops out, remove it and store it properly.

Caution Never remove a diskette or reset or turn off the computer

while the

diskette

drive light is on. You could lose your data.

Also, be sure to remove all diskettes before you turn off the

computer.

Formatting Diskettes

Before you can store data on a new diskette, you must format it using the FORMAT command. Formatting prepares the diskette so that MS-DOS can write data on it. You need to do this only once, before you use the diskette for the first time.

You can also reformat previously used diskettes to store new data. This process erases all the data on the diskette, so be sure

you do not want to save any of the files on a used diskette before you format it. See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for

instructions on using the FORMAT command.

Using

Your Computer

3-21

Making Backup Copies

It is important to make copies of all your data and system

diskettes. Make backup (or working) copies of all diskettes that

contain programs, such as the original Reference, MS-DOS, and

Utility diskettes that came with your computer, and use only

the copies. Store the original diskettes in a safe place away from your working diskettes. Also, copy your data diskettes regularly, whenever you revise them, to keep them up-to-date, and store

them away from your originals.

If you have a hard disk, you’ll probably store the programs and data files you use regularly on the hard disk. Keep backup copies of all your program files on diskettes, however, and regularly

copy important data files to diskettes as well.

You can copy your data (text and program files) in several ways:

You can use the COPY or XCOPY command to copy individual files or groups of files.

You can use the DISKCOPY command to make an exact duplicate of a diskette.

You can use the BACKUP command to back up hard disk files to diskettes. Because BACKUP can split large files across two or more diskettes, it makes more efficient use of diskette space than COPY or XCOPY. It also allows you to back up files that are larger than the capacity of your diskettes.

See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for specific instructions

on using these commands.

3-22

Using Your Computer

Note

Using a Hard Disk Drive

Using a hard disk is similar to using a diskette. However, the hard disk provides several advantages:

A 40MB hard disk can store as much data as approximately thirty-three 1.2MB diskettes, and a 100MB hard disk can store as much data as approximately eighty-two 1.2MB diskettes.

Your computer can perform all disk-related operations faster.

You can store frequently used programs and data files on the hard disk, eliminating the inconvenience of swapping diskettes to access different files.

The added storage capacity makes it easy to move back and

forth between different programs and data files. However,

because it is so easy to add programs and files to your hard disk,

you may find yourself trying to organize hundreds of files.

MS-DOS lets you keep related files together in directories and

subdirectories so they are easy to find and use. See your

MS-DOS Reference Manual for instructions on managing your

files and directories.

A hard disk must be partitioned and formatted before you can

use it. Be sure you have performed the procedures in your

MS-DOS Installation Guide to prepare your hard disk for use.

Using Your Computer

3-23

Backing up the hard disk

While the hard disk is very reliable, it is essential to back up your hard disk files to diskettes in case you lose some data accidentally. Make copies of all your system and application

program diskettes before copying the programs to the hard disk.

After you create data files on the hard disk, be sure to copy

them to diskettes whenever you revise them to keep your backup diskettes up-to-date.

Caring for your hard disk drive

Follow these precautions to protect your hard disk drive from damage and to avoid losing data:

Never turn off or reset the computer when the hard disk access light is on. This light indicates that the computer is copying data to or from the hard disk. If you interrupt this process, you can lose data.

Never attempt to open the hard disk drive. The disk itself is enclosed in a sealed container to protect it from dust.

Before you move your computer even a short distance, you need to run the HDSIT program to prepare the hard disk for

moving. See “Preparing the hard disk for moving,” below,

for instructions.

Preparing the hard disk for moving

If you need to move your computer to a new locationwhether it is across the country or just across the room-you

should run the HDSIT program to protect the hard disk during

the move.

The HDSIT program moves the disk drive’s read/write heads to

a region on the disk surface that does not contain data, and

locks them securely in position. This protects the hard disk from

being damaged if the computer is bumped accidentally.

3-24

Using Your Computer

Follow these steps to run HDSIT:

Exit any program you are using and make sure the MS-DOS command prompt appears on the screen.

Insert the Reference diskette in drive A.

Type the following and press Enter:

A:HDSIT

You see a message on the screen that tells you the disk drive’s

read/write heads will remain locked until you reset the

computer or turn the power off and on again. The computer

locks the heads and disables the keyboard. Remove the

Reference diskette and turn off the computer. You are now

ready to move it to the new location.

If your computer came with a 5 you still have the original diskette drive protector card, you may want to insert it into the drive prior to shipping your computer. This is simply an added precaution you can take to protect the read/write heads.

l/&ich

diskette drive, and

Using Your Computer

3-25

Chapter 4

Enhancing System Operations

This chapter tells you how to take advantage of the following enhancement features of your computer system:

Using AUTOEXEC.BAT and other batch files

Changing the processor speed

Reassigning the diskette drives

Using your computer as a network server

Using expanded memory beyond 640KB

Using special VGA features.

Using AUTOEXEC.BAT and Other Batch Files

As you get used to using MS-DOS and your application programs, you may find that there are commands you need to run frequently. You can automate the execution of these commands by listing them in a special file called a “batch” file. When you type the name of the batch file and press Enter, MS-DOS executes the commands in the file just as if you had

typed each command from the keyboard.

If you have a word processing program that can save a file as a text-only file (sometimes called an ASCII file), you can use that program to create a batch file. You can also use the MS-DOS COPY or EDLIN command to create the file. See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for instructions on creating and using batch files.

Enhancing System Operations

4-1

A particularly useful batch file you may want to use is called AUTOEXEC.BAT. Every time you turn on your computer,

MS-DOS looks for the AUTOEXEC.BAT file and automatically executes each of the commands.

When you install MS-DOS, it automatically creates an AUTOEXEC.BAT file for you. To create or modify the AUTOEXEC.BAT file, you can use the same programs that you

use to create any other batch file (COPY, EDLIN, or a word processing program that can save a file as a text-only file). However, be sure to name the file AUTOEXEC.BAT and store

it in the root directory of the hard disk or diskette from which

you load MS-DOS.

See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for more information about your AUTOEXEC.BAT file.

Changing the Processor Speed

Your computer’s processor can operate at two speeds: high and low. High speed is 16 MHz and low speed simulates an 8 MHz processor speed. On high, the computer can access memory faster than on low. Your processor is set to operate at high speed unless you change the speed to low or set the speed to change automatically.

Note When your computer is operating at high speed, the TURBO

light on the front panel is

off when your computer is

4-2

Enhancing System Operations

isis

You should use high speed for almost everything you do since

your programs work faster on high speed. However, certain application programs have specific timing requirements for

diskette access and can run only at the slower speed. See the

manual for your application program to determine if this is the case.

Some copy-protected application programs require the computer to run at the low speed while accessing the program on a diskette. These programs also usually require you to leave a key disk-the diskette that contains the copy protection-in the diskette drive. If you use a copy-protected program often, you may want to set your processor speed to change automatically to low speed when accessing the diskette, and return to high speed when it is finished.

There are different types of copy-protected programs.

Depending on the type you have, you may or may not want to

set the processor to automatic speed. Follow these guidelines:

If you are using a copy-protected program that can run only on a diskette or that requires a key disk, try to start the program on high speed. If this works, you do not need to set

the speed to change automatically. If you can’t load the program on high, set the speed to change automatically.

Q If you are using a copy-protected program that does not

require a key disk but requires a special procedure to install

the program on a hard disk, set the speed to low while you

are installing the program. Once it is installed, set the speed

to high, where you should be able to leave it while you load

and run the program.

If this does not work, try installing and loading the program

at low speed and then change to high speed to run it. Do

not set the speed to change automatically.

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4-3

There are three ways to change the processor speed:

Run the Setup program on your Reference diskette

Enter a keyboard command

Run the ESPEED program.

If you frequently use programs that require the processor to operate at low speed or require the automatic speed change when your computer is accessing a diskette, use the Setup program to change the processor speed. See Chapter 2 for

instructions.

If you use these programs only occasionally, you should use the keyboard commands or the ESPEED program (described below)

to change the processor speed.

Entering Keyboard Commands

Whenever you are at an MS-DOS command prompt, you can

change the processor speed by entering one of the following commands:

CTRL ALT +

CTRL ALT -

CTRL ALT *

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Enhancing System Operating

Changes the processor speed to high

(16

MHz).

Changes the processor speed to low (simulated 8 MHz).

Sets the processor speed to change to low speed automatically when the computer is accessing a diskette.

To enter these commands, hold down the CTRL key and the

ALT key and press the +, -, or * key located on the numeric

keypad. The speed setting remains in effect until you press the

RESET button or turn off the computer, or until you change it

again using the Setup program, another keyboard command, or the ESPEED program, described below.

Using the

The E-SPEED program allows you to change the processor speed to high or low, or set the speed to change automatically.

The ESPEED program is provided with your system on the

Reference diskette. If you do not have a hard disk, insert your Reference diskette into drive A before you enter the command to start the program.

If you have a hard disk drive, copy the file ESPEED.EXE from your Reference diskette onto your hard disk so you can run the program from there. See Chapter 3 for more information.

To run the ESPEED program, type the following at the MS-DOS command prompt and press Enter:

ESPEED

Program

ESPEED

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4-5

You see the following message:

Epson Speed Control Utility

Usage:

ESPEED [/H]

[/L]

[/Al

/High = set High speed (no auto) /Low

= set Low speed (no auto)

/Auto = set Auto speed

The message tells you the switches you should use speed to high, low, or automatic speed. At the MS-DOS prompt, type the E-SPEED command again and include the appropriate switch, such as the following:

to set the

ESPEED /A

This command sets the processor speed to change to low speed

automatically when the computer accesses a diskette. If you include the switch when you type the initial ESPEED

command, the program changes the speed without displaying

the Speed Control Utility message.

The processor speed you set remains in effect until you press the

RESET button or turn off the computer, or until you change it

using the Setup program, another keyboard command, or the ESPEED program again.

Entering the ESPEED command in a batch file

You may want to run the ESPEED program by including the

command in a batch file. For example, if you have a program called SAMPLE which requires an 8 MHz processor speed when the program is running on a diskette, you could include the following commands in a batch file to start the SAMPLE program:

ESPEED /A

SAMPLE

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Enhancing System Operations

You could name the batch file SAMP.BAT. Whenever you

need to run the SAMPLE program, insert the program diskette into drive A. Then type SAMP and press Enter.

The computer changes the processor speed to automatic and starts the SAMPLE program. When you access the program on the diskette, the speed changes to low and then returns to high when you are finished.

See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for instructions on creating and using batch files.

Reassigning the Diskette Drives

If your system has two diskette drives, they are connected inside your computer so that the top drive is A and the bottom drive is B. Because drive A is the “boot” drive, whenever you want to load the operating system or a bootable program from a diskette, you must insert the diskette into drive A.

If both of your drives are the same type-5 ‘/+inch, 1.2MB capacity, for example-you never need to reassign the drives. If your two drives are different types, however, you may need to change the drive letter assignments so you can boot the computer from drive B. For example, you may have a 3 ‘/z-inch program disk which you need to use to boot the computer. Or you may have an application program that requires you to leave the 3

‘/z-inch

key disk in drive A while you run the program.

In these instances, you can reverse the drive assignments to make the top drive B and the bottom drive A. There are two ways to do this:

Insert the diskette you want to boot from into the drive and turn on the computer. The drive automatically becomes drive A.

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4-7

Run the AFDD program to reassign the drive. See “Using

the AFDD Program,” below, for instructions.

Your assignments remain in effect until you press the RESET button or turn off the computer, or until you reassign the drives

to their original assignments. The reassignment remains in effect if you reset the computer from your hard disk by entering the CTRL ALT DEL command.

Using the AFDD Program

The AFDD program reverses the current diskette drive assignments and resets the system. When you are done using the reversed drive assignments, you can use the AFDD program again to reassign the drives to their original configuration.

The AFDD program is provided with your system on the Reference diskette. If you do not have a hard disk, insert your Reference diskette into drive A before you enter the command

to start the program. If you have a hard disk drive, copy the file

AFDD.EXE from your Reference diskette onto your hard disk so

you can run the program from there. See Chapter 3 for more information.

To run the AFDD program, type the following at the MS-DOS command prompt and press Enter:

AFDD

You see a message such as the following:

Reassign Floppy Drive Utility

New Assign Present

Drive A: Drive B: 1.2MB

1.44MB <= <=

1.2MB

1.44MB

(S)et and Reboot, Any other key to

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abort ?

Enhancing System Operations

Epson 3865X Plus User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

Introduction

Optional Equipment

Operating Systems and Other Software

VGA Utilities

How to Use This Manual

Where to Get Help

Choosing a Location

Removing the Protector Card

Connecting a Monitor

Using the VGA Interface

Using a Display Adapter Card

Connecting a Printer or Other Device

Using the Parallel Interface

Using the Serial Interface

Connecting the Keyboard

Connecting the Mouse

Connecting the Power Cord

Turning On the Computer

Turning Off the Computer

Automatic Configuration

Starting the Setup Program

Continuing From an Error Message

Moving the Cursor Block

Setting the Display Adapter Type

Setting the Power-on Password

Setting the Processor Speed

Setting the Speaker and Keyboard Options

Setting the Real-time Clock

Setting the Hard Disk Drive Configuration

Hard Disk Drive Types

Setting the Diskette Drive Type(s)

Setting the Serial/Parallel Interfaces

Reviewing Your Settings

Leaving the Setup Menu

Installing MS-DOS or another operating system

Copying the Reference and Utility Files

Special Keys on the Keyboard

Stopping a Command or Program

Resetting the Computer

Using a Power-on Password

Changing a Power-on Password

Deleting a Power-on Password

Using Disks and Disk Drives

How Disks Store Data

Types of Diskette Drives

Caring for Diskettes and Diskette Drives

Write-protecting Diskettes

Using a Single Diskette Drive System

Inserting and Removing Diskettes

Formatting Diskettes

Making Backup Copies

Using a Hard Disk Drive

Using AUTOEXEC.BAT and other batch files

Changing the Processor Speed

Entering Keyboard Commands

Reassigning the Diskette Drives

Using the AFDD Program